He was involved in a series of key initiatives within the city, including

‘Alive After Five’ – a campaign that transformed the city centre into a vibrant, thriving place with an evening economy valued at an estimated £800m since 2010

the £25m redevelopment of Newcastle Central Station and the historic Bigg Market

developing Space2, a groundbreaking partnership project putting businesses in direct contact with young people, to find them work experience, apprenticeships and jobs.

Other key achievements include establishing the UK’s biggest free Pride, the Welcome Students of the World festival, Newcastle Restaurant Week and the Newcastle Motor Show.

Ambition and enthusiasm

The new man at the Make It York helm… Sean BullickMr Bullick is due to join Make It York in January 2019. He said:

I have been really struck by the ambition and the enthusiasm of all those I have met so far in York and I can’t wait to get cracking in the New Year.

Before that, I look forward to meeting the Make It York team and to working with them and their partners, businesses and residents to make York an ever better place to live, to invest, to study, to work, and to visit.

Ian Gillies, Leader of City of York Council welcomed Sean to the city: “We are in the midst of unprecedented regeneration providing huge commercial and economic opportunity for York.

“Our tourism, arts and cultural offer is going from strength to strength and York’s reputation continues to build nationally and internationally.

“In addition, Sean’s work with young people as part of the Space 2 project will be invaluable in informing our work to engage with young people as we future-proof our city for future generations.”

Council chief executive Mary Weastell said: “The field of candidates was very strong but in the final selection process, Sean’s skills and experience made him the overwhelming choice. He will bring with him a raft of expertise that York can capitalise on.”

About Make It York

Make It York’s purpose is to develop and promote the city and its surroundings – nationally and internationally – as a vibrant and attractive place to live, visit, study, work and do business. The company’s remit covers leisure and business tourism, city centre management, festivals and events, business support and inward investment.

Since Make It York was formed the city has scooped many accolades including being named Best Place to Live by the Sunday Times.

Jane Lady Gibson, Chair, Make It York, said: “York is in a strong position continue to increase inward investment, develop the science and innovation sectors and increase the value of tourism.

“This is a pivotal time for Sean to take the lead in promoting York across the globe and thanks to the work of Steve Brown and a very strong team, the Make It York partnership will continue to support York’s thriving economic and community life.”